Stays in Chelan
Chelan is a city in central Washington, located at the southern end of Lake Chelan, a narrow, 50-mile-long glacial lake that is one of the deepest in the United States. The city serves as the main gateway to the lake and the surrounding recreation areas, including Lake Chelan State Park and the Lake…
Every stay in Chelan
Recent rates first, then the best-reviewed rooms.
Search live rates in Chelan
Pick your dates — every Chelan room with a live price, in one list.
Free cancellation on most rooms · 1 t CO₂ removed per booking, at no extra cost.
About Chelan
Where to stay in Chelan
Downtown Chelan. The historic downtown area offers walkable access to shops, restaurants, and the city's waterfront park on Lake Chelan.
Lakeside / South Shore. Properties along the south shore of Lake Chelan provide direct water access and views, with many vacation rentals and resorts.
Manson. A small town across the lake from Chelan, Manson is known for its wineries and proximity to Wapato Point and other lakeside communities.
North Shore. The north shore of Lake Chelan is home to several resorts and campgrounds, including Lake Chelan State Park, with a quieter, more natural setting.
Getting there and around
Chelan is accessible by road via US Route 97 and State Route 150. The nearest major airport is Pangborn Memorial Airport in East Wenatchee, about 40 miles away, with connections to Seattle. From Seattle, the drive takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours via US-2 and US-97. Public transportation options are limited; a car is recommended for getting around. Within Chelan, a local bus service, Link Transit, provides routes in the city and to nearby areas. Boating and ferries are common for accessing lakeside destinations, including the passenger ferry to Stehekin.
When to go
Summer (June to August) is the most popular time, with warm weather ideal for water activities and outdoor recreation. Fall (September to October) offers mild temperatures and harvest season at local wineries and orchards. Winter (December to February) brings colder weather and opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing in the nearby mountains. Spring (March to May) can be variable, with blooming orchards and fewer crowds.
Questions, answered
What is Lake Chelan known for?
Lake Chelan is known for its exceptional depth and length, making it a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water sports. The lake's clear waters and scenic surroundings attract visitors year-round.
How do I get to Stehekin from Chelan?
Stehekin is accessible by passenger ferry, floatplane, or hiking trails. The ferry departs from Chelan and takes about four hours to reach Stehekin at the north end of the lake.
Are there wineries in Chelan?
Yes, the Lake Chelan Valley has a growing wine industry with numerous wineries and tasting rooms, particularly in the Manson and Chelan areas.
What outdoor activities are available in Chelan?
Popular activities include boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, and golfing in summer, and skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in winter. The surrounding area also offers camping and wildlife viewing.
Is there public transportation in Chelan?
Link Transit provides bus service in Chelan and surrounding areas, but frequencies may be limited. Having a car is often more convenient for exploring the region.